McCloskey International, the Keene-based company that manufactures crushing and screening equipment for the aggregates and mining industries and more, has pledged $1 million for babies and children’s programs at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC).
Lesley Heighway, the President and CEO of the PRHC Foundation (which raises funds for the hospital), made the announcement on Friday (August 25) at the inaugural Greenbridge Celtic Folk Festival, hosted by musicians Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy and held over the weekend on the McCloskey family property.
“The thought of a baby or a child requiring hospital care is heartbreaking, especially when it means seeking specialized treatment outside our community,” said Patchal McCloskey, founder and president of McCloskey International. “Not only can the costs add up quickly, but the emotional toll of being separated from family support systems can be devastating.
“McCloskey International is committed to investing in innovative technologies that support care for PRHC’s most fragile patients and their families close to home, where and when they need it most.”
VIDEO: Lesley Heighway of PRHC Foundation announces the $1 million pledge
Heighway thanked both MacMaster and Leahy for allowing the PRHC Foundation to make the announcement, which received a standing ovation, at the music festival. She also explained why the McCloskey pledge is so important.
“Last year, 15,853 babies and children under 19 came from across our region to receive care at PRHC,” Heighway said. “We’re so grateful to McCloskey International for their support of key technological investments such as infant ventilators, triple pumps and vein viewers for PRHC’s Labour and Delivery program, Level 2B Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and pediatric inpatient and outpatient programs.
“Thanks to their generosity, fewer pediatric patients than ever will need to be transferred to a hospital specializing in children’s care. Instead they will be able to receive expert care right here at home for much, if not all, of their treatment.”
Heighway added that the $1 million pledge from McCloskey International will also have an impact on health care for generations to come, as it will support the PRHC Foundation’s efforts to encourage people to leave a legacy gift — a post-humous donation make through their will and estate.
“With their support of critical lifesaving equipment and investing in the foundation’s ability to raise funds for the future through our legacy giving program, McCloskey International is truly transforming care, both today and tomorrow,” Heighway said.
